The Lengthening on Nail is an external procedure commonly called as the LON is performed by surgically inserting an intramedullary (IM) nail after making a precise hole in the bone which shall be at least 1½ mm in diameter, larger than the diameter of the chosen nail. The length of the nail varies on the height of the patient and is usually chosen to be 3 to 5 cm short of the ankle joint. Standard locking IM nail of a reputed internal brand is used for the procedure.
After the IM nail has been inserted, two screws are inserted towards the end of the nail. An external Ilizarov construct is then fixed to the limb to facilitate the distraction process. Upon the completion of the distraction process ie. 3 months, the external construct is removed.
The benefits of the LON Procedure are:
- The time period for the external construct is less.
- Reduced rate of infection.
- Prevents fractures in the regenerated bone.
- Minimal scars.
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Topic: The LON Technique (Read 1287 times)